Thursday, September 6, 2012

Mr. Churchill's Secretary introduces the reader to Maggie Hope, an intelligent, self-sufficient woman living in WWII London. Maggie is a strong woman whom I found interesting and refreshing. In addition to great characters, MacNeal's book combines two of my favorite genres -- mystery and historical fiction. This is definitely a series I will follow. I can't wait to see what Maggie's next adventure is!

Monday, March 19, 2012

The winners of the 2011 Indie Lit Awards have been posted! It was fun working with my team to select the winner and runner-up for the Mystery category. Congratulations to all the winners. Head here to see the list!

Q: Why are you reading it? Business? Pleasure? For review?
A: I'm reading the Gone with the Wind book because one of the authors sent me a copy to review. Hotel Angeline just sounded intriguing. One novel written by 36 authors in one week? Come on. Plus, one of the authors is a fave of mine, Erik Larson.

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

There is certainly nothing innocent about the characters in Morrow's stories. I'm not opposed to dark stories. I'm a huge mystery and crime fiction fan after all. However, the majority of Morrow's stories were too dark and depressing even for me. Many of his characters are beyond uninnocent and enter the realm of amoral and disturbed.

Although this was my overall impression of The Uninnocent, there were stories that I found less objectionable and even enjoyed. "Amazing Grace" was an interesting story about the truth that is revealed when a blind man regains his sight. "The Enigma of Grover's Mill" cleverly integrates Orson Welles' War of the Worlds into the story and the psyche of his main character. Finally, "Ellie's Idea" is a humorous look at one selfish woman's efforts to make amends and tell the truth.

If you decide to read The Uninnocent, be prepared for dark stories with sometimes disturbing themes. Morrow is actually a good writer...if you can stand to have his characters inhabiting your head.